What is GRE?

Are you planning to pursue a graduate degree in the United States or other English-speaking countries? If so, you've probably heard of the GRE. But what exactly is the GRE, and why is it important for your admission process? In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the GRE, including the test types, structure, validity, and preparation tips. So, let's dive in!

Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test designed to measure your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. It's administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and is widely accepted by graduate schools and business schools around the world as part of the admission process.

The GRE Test Types

There are two types of GRE tests: the General Test and the Subject Test. Most universities require the General GRE, which assesses your skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. However, Some universities and graduate programs may require or prefer the GRE Subject Test in addition to the GRE General Test, depending on the field of study.

The GRE Subject Test provides a more specialized assessment of your knowledge in a particular subject area, which can be crucial for highly competitive programs or specific disciplines. It allows admissions committees to gauge your expertise in a particular field and can be especially valuable when applying to programs that demand a strong background in a particular subject, such as the sciences or humanities. While not all universities or programs require the GRE Subject Test, it can enhance your application and demonstrate your proficiency in your chosen field.

The GRE General Test measures your overall academic ability and consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.

1. The Verbal Reasoning section assesses your ability to analyze and evaluate written material, synthesize information obtained from it, and understand the meanings of words and sentences.
2. The Quantitative Reasoning section measures your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information and solve problems using mathematical concepts.
3. The Analytical Writing section evaluates your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively in writing.

The GRE Subject Test, on the other hand, measures your knowledge of a specific subject and is intended for applicants who have an undergraduate major or extensive background in one of the following subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology.

• Biology: The Biology test covers topics such as cellular and molecular biology, ecology, genetics, and organismal biology. It also includes questions on experimental design and interpretation.

• Chemistry: The Chemistry test covers topics such as analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. It also includes questions on laboratory techniques and data analysis.

• Literature in English: The Literature in English test covers literary analysis and interpretation of poetry, drama, and prose fiction. It includes questions on literary theory and criticism, as well as literary history and cultural contexts.

• Mathematics: The Mathematics test covers topics such as calculus, algebra, geometry, and discrete mathematics. It also includes questions on mathematical reasoning and problem-solving.

• Physics: The Physics test covers topics such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics. It also includes questions on experimental design and data analysis.

• Psychology: The Psychology test covers topics such as biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology. It includes questions on research methods and statistics, as well as psychological disorders and treatments.

Each GRE Subject Test is designed to assess your knowledge and understanding of the specific subject area at an advanced level. By reviewing the content covered on each test and practicing with sample questions, you can improve your chances of achieving a high score and demonstrating your expertise to potential graduate programs.

The GRE General Test Structure

The GRE General Test is computer-based that consists of six sections, with the first section being an unscored research section used to develop future test questions. The remaining five sections are scored and consist of two Verbal Reasoning sections, two Quantitative Reasoning sections, and one Analytical Writing section.

During the GRE General Test, you will be given a total of 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete the exam. The Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections each consist of two 35-minute sections, for a total of 70 minutes for each section. The difficulty level of the questions in these sections is adaptive, meaning that the difficulty of the second section you receive will depend on how well you performed on the first section.

The Analytical Writing section is comprised of two tasks: the "Issue" task and the "Argument" task. You will have 30 minutes to complete each task, for a total of 60 minutes. The Issue task requires you to analyze and respond to a specific statement, while the Argument task requires you to analyze and evaluate an argument.

The unscored research section can appear at any point after the Analytical Writing section and can be either a Verbal or Quantitative Reasoning section. This section is used by ETS to test new questions and doesn't count toward your score. It's important to note that you won't know which section is the research section, so it's essential to do your best in every section.

Overall, the GRE General Test is designed to assess a broad range of skills and abilities, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical writing. By understanding the test structure and question types, you can better prepare yourself for success on test day.

The GRE Subject Test Structure

The GRE Subject Test, on the other hand, is paper-based and lasts about two hours and 50 minutes. The test consists of 130 multiple-choice questions, with each subject test having its own specific format. The GRE Subject Tests are designed to measure knowledge and understanding in specific subject areas, including Biology, Chemistry, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. Each test is scored on a scale of 200 to 990, with 10-point increments, and you will have 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete the exam.

The content of the GRE Subject Tests is based on a curriculum for undergraduate majors in each respective discipline. Each test is divided into multiple sections, and the number of questions varies depending on the subject. For example, the Biology test consists of approximately 190 multiple-choice questions, while the Literature in English test has 230 to 250 questions.

Unlike the GRE General Test, the GRE Subject Tests are offered in a paper-based format and are only administered a few times a year. It's essential to check the official GRE website for test dates and registration deadlines.

To prepare for the GRE Subject Tests, you should review the content covered in your undergraduate major, as well as any additional resources that may be helpful. It's also a good idea to take practice tests to get a sense of the types of questions you'll encounter on the exam.

Overall, the GRE Subject Tests are an excellent way to showcase your expertise in a particular subject area and may be required by some graduate programs as part of the admissions process. 

GRE Test Validity

The GRE General Test is valid for five years from the date of testing. On the other hand, the GRE Subject Test is offered only three times a year and has a shorter validity period of two years from the date of testing. It's essential to recognize that specific graduate programs may have their own validity requirements, so it is advisable to verify the policy with the institutions to which you plan to apply.

GRE Score Range

The GRE General Test is scored as follows:

• Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections are scored on a scale of 130 to 170, with 1-point increments.
• The Analytical Writing section is scored on a scale of 0 to 6, with half-point increments.
• The GRE combined score, calculated by adding your Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning scores, is often a key factor in evaluating your application.

The GRE Subject Test has its own scoring system, which you can find in the official GRE resources. Each GRE Subject Test is scored differently, and the score range can vary by subject.

What is a Good GRE Score?

A good GRE general score depends on the specific graduate programs you're applying to. In many cases, an average score (approximately 152 or above for both Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning, or a combined score of around 304) is considered acceptable for admission. However, it's essential to understand that a competitive score, typically exceeding these averages, is often preferred by graduate programs. Here are the competitive score expectations:

• Verbal Reasoning: Typically, a score of 158 or above is considered competitive. For highly selective programs, a score of 163 or above may be required.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Generally, a score of 159 or above is considered competitive. For programs that demand strong quantitative skills, such as engineering or business, a score of 165 or above may be required.
• Analytical Writing: A good Analytical Writing score is generally considered to be 4.5 or above. A score of 5.0 or above is considered strong, and a score of 6.0 is considered excellent.

It's important to note that GRE score requirements can vary significantly among universities and graduate programs worldwide. While top-tier institutions generally expect a GRE score of 300 or higher, some universities may have a no-minimum GRE score policy or even require no GRE at all. This shift reflects a new approach to admissions, where universities consider various aspects of an applicant's profile.

Achieving a strong GRE score, especially in the competitive range, can compensate for a lower GPA and demonstrate your dedication to academic success. Additionally, some universities use GRE scores to award scholarships and identify outstanding candidates. If you are applying for scholarships or financial aid to universities in the US, having a competitive GRE score can significantly improve your chances of receiving support.

Make sure to carefully review the specific requirements of each university you are interested in, as their policies may vary. For the most up-to-date information, if you plan to study in the USA, it is recommended to check the official GRE website and the websites of the universities you plan to apply to, as policies may change over time.

Here is a table of GRE score ranges and their general interpretations:

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines. The specific score requirements for your desired graduate program may vary. You can find more specific information about GRE score requirements on the websites of the graduate programs you are interested in.

 Here are some factors that can affect what is considered a good GRE score:

• The type of graduate program you are applying to: Some graduate programs, such as those in law and medicine, typically require higher GRE scores than other programs.
• The competitiveness of the graduate program: Graduate programs that are more competitive typically require higher GRE scores than less competitive programs.
• Your undergraduate GPA: A strong undergraduate GPA can help offset a lower GRE score.
• Your work experience: Relevant work experience can help offset a lower GRE score.
• Your letters of recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation can help offset a lower GRE score.

How to Prepare for the GRE

Preparing for the GRE can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and strategies, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the exam:

1. Familiarize yourself with the test format and question types by taking practice tests and reviewing test-taking strategies.

2. Brush up on your math and English skills, particularly in areas where you may be weaker.

3. Develop a study schedule that allows you to practice consistently and effectively over a period of weeks or months.

4. Consider enrolling in a test preparation course or hiring a tutor to provide additional support and guidance.

5. Stay focused, stay positive, and stay motivated! Remember that preparation and perseverance are key to achieving your desired score.

It's worth noting that there are certain restrictions when it comes to taking the GRE General Test. You can take the test once every 21 days, with a maximum of five times within any continuous rolling 12-month period. This policy applies even if you canceled your scores on a previous test. Therefore, it's important to plan your test-taking schedule carefully to ensure that you have enough time to prepare and achieve your desired score. Keep in mind that some graduate programs may also have their own specific test-taking policies and requirements, so it's always best to check with the institutions you're applying to before registering for the exam.

The GRE is an important part of the graduate school admission process and requires careful preparation and planning. By understanding the test types, structure, validity, and preparation strategies, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your academic goals. 

GRE Study Resources

There are many study resources available to help you prepare for the GRE. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Official GRE materials: The Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers the GRE, offers a variety of official study materials, including the Official GRE Guide and the GRE PowerPrep software. These materials provide a good overview of the test structure, as well as practice questions and tests.

2. Prep courses: There are many companies that offer GRE prep courses, both online and in-person. These courses typically include in-depth instruction on the test content, as well as strategies for approaching different types of questions.

3. Online resources: There are many websites and online forums that offer free GRE study materials, such as practice questions and study guides. Some popular options include Khan Academy, Magoosh, and GRE Prep Club.

No matter which study resources you choose, it's important to create a study plan and stick to it. Give yourself enough time to prepare, and be sure to take practice tests and assess your progress along the way. With dedication and hard work, you can increase your chances of achieving a high score on the GRE and gaining admission to your desired graduate program.

How to Register for the GRE Test:

To register for the GRE General Test, you can create an account on the ETS website and register online. You can choose a test date and location that's convenient for you and pay the test fee using a credit or debit card. The test fee varies depending on the country and region where you're taking the test, but it's typically around $205.

You can also register for the GRE General Test by phone, fax, or mail. However, keep in mind that the registration process may take longer if you choose these options.

To register for the GRE Subject Test, you can also create an account on the ETS website and register online. The test fee for the GRE Subject Test is $150, and you can choose a test date and location that's convenient for you.

Like the GRE General Test, you can also register for the GRE Subject Test by phone, fax, or mail. However, keep in mind that the registration process may take longer if you choose these options.

It's important to note that the registration process for the GRE test can vary depending on the country in which you are taking the exam. Some countries may offer online and phone registration, while others may only allow for online registration. It's always best to check with the specific testing center or GRE website for the most up-to-date information on registration options in your country.

here are the steps to register for the GRE test:

1. Go to the official GRE website at www.ets.org/gre.
2. Click on the "Register/Find Test Dates" button on the top menu.
3. Create an ETS account by clicking on the "Create Account" button and filling in your personal information.
4. Select your test location, date, and time from the available options.
5. Choose the type of GRE test you want to take (General or Subject).
6. Provide any additional information requested, such as test accommodations, score recipient(s), and payment details.
7. Review and confirm your registration details.
8. Pay the registration fee with a valid credit or debit card.
9. Submit your registration and receive a confirmation email with your test appointment details.

Please note that test dates and locations can fill up quickly, so it's recommended to register well in advance of your desired test date.

It's important to note that registration for the GRE test typically closes a few weeks before the test date, so it's essential to register as early as possible to secure your spot. Additionally, if you need to reschedule or cancel your test, you must do so at least four days before your scheduled test date to avoid forfeiting your test fee.